We welcome today's publication of government consultations on employment reform. These include bereavement leave and protections for pregnant women and new mothers.
Niall Mackenzie, Acas Chief Executive, said:
"We welcome the publication of this first batch of consultations. It is encouraging to see the government put employment relations at the heart of its Make Work Pay agenda.
"New rules covering pregnant workers and bereavement leave can help employers to support their employees at very challenging times in their lives, and ensure they feel supported at work. Bereavement affects people in different ways, and it can impact on their ability to do their work. New rules for employers can help recognise that grief is not linear and ensure that staff are treated sensitively, with their physical and mental health a priority.
"At Acas, we know that good workplace relations are key to a resilient and prosperous business and therefore crucial to economic growth.
"We are proud to be the go-to organisation to help employers and workers navigate changes at work through our expert Codes of Practice, guidance and freely available advice."
The government consultations are about:
- a duty to inform workers of the right to join a union
- trade union right of access
- enhanced dismissal protection for pregnant women and new mothers
- leave for bereavement including pregnancy loss
- umbrella companies
Find out about the government's Make Work Pay consultations on GOV.UK.